Going to San Francisco in two weeks. Have been there many times, but always mess up on getting from the airport to Cow Hollow. Could some one help me out? I think the fastest way is to take the Civic Center exit, and then take Van Ness to Lombard, but I usually waffle about where to go and end up in the Tenderloin. I'm staying at the Cow Hollow Motor Inn at Lombard and Steiner, so it's not a big deal if I end up on Fell and turn right on Fillmore, but I'd rather go the quickest way, and know just how to do it. Also, this time I'm flying into Oakland, but I assume the route's the same after I cross the bridge, right?

Another question. The only time I tried to go over the Bay Bridge during rush hour it was very, very slow. Is that normal, I assume, and is there any way around that, other than traveling early or late?

One more thing. Does anyone know anything about Caspar? I want to visit the lighthouse there, and would like to spend the night there. Most places in Mendo are a little bit pricey, so I was wondering if the Caspar Inn would be way too loud and wild for me. They supposedly have rooms..Also, does anyone know anythnig about rooms at Jughandle Creek Farm? They have a web site which implies they rent rooms, but my email to them didn't go through. Thanks everyone!

My DH and DD stayed at the Caspar Inn a few years ago. It's pretty low budget with plain/ spartan yet clean rooms. If you are there on the weekend it can be noisy from the night club downstairs.

well, I guess that's what I was thinking, but wanting someone to confirm it! I don't mind the low budget, but the noise might bother me, particularly since I'm an early to bed kind of person. I DO like music, though, and I have to admit, they have some interesting music advertised! But probably not something I'd do on my own - and this trip I will be solo. Thanks for responding - good to know someone has actually stayed there, though!

You're very welcome. My DH just commented on how he's in no hurry to stay there again, LOL. And we are pretty budget minded travelers. FYI, you picked a good spot by staying at Cow Hollow. I don't drive so I can't help you out with the directions.

Yes, I love the Cow Hollow - won't stay anywhere else when I go to SF for work or pleasure!!! Everyone at work (Mint) looks at me strangely when I give them that name, but the joke's on them! They can stay at those pricey Union Square hotels, surrounded by street people - just give me my Chestnut St. restaurants, my easy access to Marin headlands and bridge, and I'm in heaven! Guess I'll drive by the Caspar Inn just out of curiousity when I'm there, but sleep elsewhere!